Getting your first period:

Having your first period is a special confirmation that your female organs and hormones are working right. It is a private thing, too. Some girls tell an older sister or mother or best friend. Whoever you tell, let them know if you don't want other people to know about it.

Will everyone know when I get my first period?

When you get your first period, there's no sudden gush of blood that will leave a puddle in your seat at school or a trail as you run to the bathroom. The blood that comes out with your first period is usually a pretty light amount. You'll probably only notice a small, brown stain on your underpants. But it's important to put on a sanitary pad as soon as you notice that you have your period and use a pad or tampon every time you get it.

When will my periods get regular?

It can take up to two years from your first period to start having a predictable cycle. The older you are when you get your first period, the longer it can take to have a regular cycle. Your stress level, changing exercise patterns, or eating habits can also influence how regular your periods are. It's very normal, especially at first, to have periods that don't come regularly every month. For most girls, they'll eventually settle down into a regular cycle.

Keep track on a calendar when you get your periods. From the first day of one period until the first day of the next one is one cycle. In time, the cycle settles into a fairly consistent number of days for most girls and women. If you know that you usually have 28 days between periods, for example, you can begin to predict when your period will come. It's helpful to know when you'll get your period so you can be prepared. You can have pads or tampons in your purse or locker to use, so accidents (like a stain on your jeans!) won't happen.

Do I have to do anything different when I have my period?

Not really. Keeping yourself clean is a good idea all the time. It's a good idea to take a shower or bath and use deodorant or antiperspirant every day. Some girls wear darker colored pants or skirts when they have their periods, just in case the pad leaks. It's fine to continue with your usual activities when you have your period.